DASMARIÑAS, Cavite — Vice President Sara Duterte on Friday attended the Gawad Karangalan — a program of the city government to recognize resident-students excelling in academics.

A total of 2,969 students earning the recognition of ‘With the Highest and With High Honors’ in elementary and high school, Latin Honors in college, graduate studies finishers, and licensure and Bar exams passers and topnotchers, were given cash incentives by the city government.

Vice President Sara Duterte, who served as the guest of honor, congratulated the students and reminded them that they are an inspiration to their communities.

“You have achieved and brought honor not only for yourself and your family but also to your beloved city,” Duterte said.

“Today’s event is a seedbed where culture of excellence that inspires people to excel, achieve, and succeed is propagated and nurtured — to get that dream job or career, to build that dream house for your family, to have that dream life,” she added.

Duterte also lauded the city government for initiating the activity and motivate students to perform well in their academics so they will be skilled and competent in their future endeavours.

“Let me commend the leadership of Mayor Jennifer Austria-Barzaga for an initiative that advances the value of excellence in education — and for promoting the endless possibilities and opportunities awaiting those who are academically competent and successful,” Vice President said.

“This is also an initiative that creates a community of people we would possibly later see at the frontlines — leading our country’s growth and development through their chosen professions and career paths,” she added.

OVP MEDIA